Ford calls for support from fans

Ford, a Tynecastle favourite for 12 years, is a founder of the supporters’ group which has emerged as the most credible bidder for the debt-ridden Edinburgh outfit.

And he believes FoH have the vision and ability to not only buy the club — but to transform it into a self-sufficient business.

He said: “For three years, the Foundation has worked on the potential of creating a structure which would allow the fans to take over the club.

“The thinking and planning, which has been under way since 2010, is comprehensive, exciting and potentially life-changing, in terms of die-hard Hearts fans and the entire structure of the professional sport in Scotland.

“It is up to Hearts supporters everywhere to grasp this one and only opportunity.

“This is the defining moment in this club’s long, illustrious history — but time is short.”

Ford, 68, and local businessman Alex Mackie created FoH in 2010.

The former Scotland star claims that, under Vladimir Romanov’s reign, Hearts have been “effectively insolvent for several years”.

He added: “The position is now dire. The fact is this company has been effectively insolvent for several years and recovering the deficiencies of cash which have built up is impossible.

“There are no guarantees the Foundation of Hearts can provide a magical solution.

“But with the right structure, courage and sound principles, it has every chance of working.”

However, FoH could face opposition from a Scandinavian consortium eager to purchase a controlling stake in Hearts.

To secure complete control of the club and stadium, the consortium would also need to buy the 29.9 per cent stake of Valnetas UAB, the administrators of bankrupt Ukio Bankas.

It has emerged that several potential bidders from America could also enter the running for the Gorgie club.